Sr Automation Support Engineer

SAGA Diagnostics is a personalized cancer diagnostics and disease monitoring company focused on molecular genetic analysis of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). The company’s mission is to improve precision cancer medicine, provide more accurate treatment monitoring, and improve patient survival using minimally-invasive liquid biopsy cancer testing services. SAGA’s proprietary tests can help patients, oncologists, and drug developers detect actionable mutations, stratify patient groups, and monitor treatment response, residual disease, and disease recurrence at unprecedented sensitivity and scale.  SAGA Diagnostics recently established a US operation in Research Triangle Park (RTP) and is looking for an Automation Scientist to primarily develop, deploy, validate and support our liquid handling instruments and methods within the RTP clinical lab.  

SAGA Diagnostics is seeking a Sr Automation Support Engineer to join our Automation team at our state-of-the-art facility in Research Triangle Park (RTP). As a front-runner in personalized cancer diagnostics, we are committed to enhancing precision medicine through innovative molecular genetic analysis of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). This role is pivotal as it directly contributes to the deployment and operational excellence of our liquid biopsy testing platforms.

The Sr Automation Support Engineer will be responsible for the technical and operational support of automated systems utilized in our clinical lab. This includes troubleshooting issues, performing maintenance, and ensuring the reliability and uptime of automation equipment. You will work closely with cross-functional teams and third-party vendors to streamline processes and implement robust automated solutions.

The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of laboratory automation, liquid handling technologies, and molecular diagnostics. A successful Engineer in this role will demonstrate a proactive approach to problem-solving while exhibiting strong collaboration and communication skills. Join us at an exciting time as we drive advancements in cancer genomics and make a significant difference in the lives of patients worldwide.

Key Responsibilities:

· Provide technical expertise and support for automated laboratory systems, ensuring reliability and efficiency.

· Troubleshoot issues and perform preventive and corrective maintenance of automation equipment.

· Collaborate with team members and stakeholders to optimize automated workflows and enhance throughput.

· Develop and document operational protocols, user manuals, and maintenance schedules for automated systems.

· Coordinate with vendors for system upgrades, maintenance, and technical support.

· Implement corrective and preventive actions to ensure compliance with relevant regulations (CLIA, CAP, ISO).

· Train laboratory personnel on automated systems and best practices for usage.

· Monitor and analyze system performance data to identify trends and make recommendations for improvements.

· Participate in cross-functional teams to foster innovation and drive automation projects.

· Bachelor's degree in engineering, biomedical technology, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.

· 3 years of experience in automation support within a high-throughput laboratory setting.

· Strong knowledge of laboratory automation systems and liquid handling technologies (e.g., Hamilton, Tecan, or Agilent platforms).

· Experience supporting molecular diagnostics or NGS workflows.

· Proficiency in troubleshooting hardware and software issues related to automated systems.

· Solid understanding of quality control and regulatory standards in a laboratory environment (CLIA, CAP, ISO).

· Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across teams.

· Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

· A proactive and innovative mindset with a commitment to continuous improvement.

• Competitive Compensation and company wide benefits plan

• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development.

• A collaborative and innovative work environment dedicated to improving oncology outcomes.

SAGA Diagnostics is an equal opportunity employer, fully committed to achieving a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces and encourages applicants of every background.  The company’s policy regarding equal employment opportunity means that all decisions regarding recruitment, hiring, benefits, wage and salary administration, scheduling, disciplinary action and termination will be made without unlawful discrimination on the basis of sex, gender, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship status, pregnancy or maternity, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local law. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing an application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to hr@sagadiagnostics.com.